‘The Parrot and the Lady – Introducing Randy Short 008’ by Tony Inman.

The South Pacific island of Espiritu Santo is the backdrop for this tongue-in-cheek spy thriller.

The action centres on a quest for treasure aboard a WW2 shipwreck whose mysteries link Government secrets of the past with a modern world confused by political correctness.

Randy Short juggles a stable family life with his role of Australian Secret Service Agent. His family vacation is interrupted by a call to duty that will pit him against dangerous foreign operatives in a race to solve the enigma.

From an eclectic cast, the Aussie befriends CIA mercenary Gus McThompkins in their personal ‘War Against Terror.’

Here’s what one reader said:

Mark Raine - Australia

“Just read your book. Had a few laughs. Really enjoyed it – a ripping yarn!”

‘… such an entertaining piece. Your insights on life are masterful and just go to show that whilst we are all different, deep down we are all pretty similar.’ Andy Inman – Shrewsbury, UK

‘Having read this book today from cover to cover, whilst lying in bed recovering from my snip operation, I laughed so hard I popped a stitch… Bo!!@cks! It was nevertheless a day well spent and I have been laughing like a drain. I can’t wait for the next instalment…’ – Ministry of Defence Spokesman – UK

‘It was a great read and I chuckled all the way through. Can’t wait for the next one! Everyone you need to read The Parrot and the Lady! Excellent stuff!’ – Denine Booker, Michegan, U.S.A.

The More Detailed Reviews

‘The Parrot and the Lady by Tony Inman follows the exploits of, Randy Short 008 Secret Agent. The scene is set in Vanuatu and alternates between present day and major historical events. Tony’s knowledge of Vanuatu, its history, politics and geography is astute and insightful and he has the wit and humour to make what he had to say funny and enjoyable.

Tony takes great pleasure in the minutia and some of the stories he tells reflect this, like, for example, his story of Gus McTompkins who plays a crucial role as Randy’s accomplice or Tammy Whineburger and her unfortunate lack of luck.

Tony presents lots of fact and figures on the history of Vanuatu and the President Coolidge and the bibliography of the book would suggest he did detailed research. In addition, and from reading between the lines, his research would appear to be also gleaned from folk tales, local myths and literature and materials he would have picked up as he experienced Vanuatu as well as the joys, turmoil and politics of everyday living. The real gems in this book were the humorous anecdotes, witty observations and laugh-out-loud comments made by Tony and there are many.

The concluding chapter of the book sums up Tony’s perspective on life by saying, “If life hands you a lemon, it’s up to you to turn it into lemonade “. This is one of those rare books that can beautifully blend facts and be funny seamlessly.’

Joanne Small – Perth, Western Australia

‘As your first attempt, the book was a very enjoyable read. It kept my interest in the main story and was full of great side stories which at times had me laughing out loud. I look forward to the next Tony Inman addition to my bookshelf.’